Friday, 03 January 2025 , 04:24 PM
Winter's peak season is bringing unexpected relief to vegetable markets. However, instability in rice and chicken prices has dampened that sense of relief.
A market survey on Friday (January 3) of popular spots like Mohakhali, Karwan Bazar, and Nakhalpara Samity Bazar revealed contrasting trends.
Rice Prices Surge
Over the last two weeks, rice prices have jumped by up to 10 BDT per kilogram, adding strain to household budgets. Retailers and wholesalers attribute the hike to millers, who blame higher paddy costs. However, many sellers believe the increase is unwarranted, citing manipulation by millers and weak regulatory oversight.
Shahajan Mia, a rice trader, accused millers of artificially inflating prices, stating, "They are exploiting the lack of monitoring to pressurize the government."
Chicken Prices Remain High
Despite the drop in egg prices—now at 130–135 BDT per dozen—chicken remains costly. Broiler chicken is priced at 190–200 BDT per kg, while Sonali chicken costs 330–350 BDT per kg.
Vegetable Markets Offer Relief
Vegetables have seen significant price reductions, with most items available for under 60 BDT per kilogram:
New potatoes have also flooded markets, bringing their prices down to 40–45 BDT per kg, although older potatoes remain at 50 BDT per kg.
Onion and Garlic Trends
Local onions now cost 50–55 BDT per kg, a noticeable drop, while older onions are priced at 75–80 BDT per kg. However, garlic prices are slightly up, with domestic varieties at 230–235 BDT/kg and imported ones at 220–225 BDT/kg.
Fish and Meat Prices Steady
Beef prices remain high at 700–750 BDT/kg, and fish prices have shown no major fluctuations.
Consumers welcome the relief in vegetable prices but lament the financial burden caused by surging rice and chicken costs. For many, the benefits of winter's bounty are being offset by these persistent price hikes.